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This week’s new questions

How many of the 118 elements in the periodic table could we safely get rid of? Why do humans feel the urge to share their thoughts, opinions and experiences with others?

1 April 2026

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How many of the 118 known elements in the periodic table could we permanently delete without any ill effect on our lives?

Justin Baker
Melbourne, Australia

 

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Cat Gwynn/Getty Images

Why do humans feel the urge to share their thoughts, opinions and experiences with others?

Thomas Gleeson
Hamburg, Germany

 

Last Word is Âé¶¹´«Ã½’s long-running series in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions, ranging from the minutiae of everyday life to absurd astronomical hypotheticals. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.

Questions should be scientific enquiries about everyday phenomena, and both questions and answers should be concise. We reserve the right to edit items for clarity and style. Please include a postal address, daytime telephone number and email address.

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